|
|
||
|
It is very unusual to be able to visit to an orphanage here in China. We
were indeed fortunate to arrange a visit to the Feixi Welfare Institute
where Mitch and Barrie's little girl Naomi came from.
After an hours ride into the rural farming countryside we arrived at the attractive compound of buildings that make up the center. MAPS (Maine Adoption Placement Service) had made possible many modernization projects at this Institute. The first thing that struck us was the fantastic reaction by the staff and orphans to Naomi's visit. People came running from all quarters. Mitch and Naomi were surrounded. Her broad smile and bright eyes spoke volumes. This is a first rate facility staffed by a caring and enthusiastic group of people. We met with the principals and toured the new staff quarters that they paid for themselves. Much like our condominium system, the staff had purchased their own apartment. A visit to the upstairs infant section of the orphanage building showed light and airy rooms with about 50 cribs - all with a baby. The older children were at school. We next visited the adult section where these gentle and friendly people without families live. Like the quarters for the infants, the adults had simple and clean accommodations. In talking with the staff we learned that the next important facility planned at the institute is a play area for the children. We came away convinced that indeed these were fortunate people to have a place to call home that afforded them a nurturing and safe environment. China appears to be working hard at solving these most daunting of society's problems. MAPS is playing an important cooperative role.
|
||